T-Bird (oz10423)

About this Plan

T-Bird. Contol line combat trainer model. Wingspan 32-1/4 in, for 2.5 cc power.

Quote: "SO, YOU HAVE a little experience of control line flying, enough to enable you to keep the wretched model off the ground until it runs out of fuel without any premature 'landings'. Or perhaps you are already fully confident at handle waving and can complete a fancy-looking acrobatic schedule. Either way, you want to try combat flying - so T-Bird will fit the bill, whatever your prowess. This is achieved by the fact that three versions of the T-Bird are drawn here: a combat trainer, with a thick full-stunt wing section and elevator hinged on the trailing edge, an advanced combat trainer with a similar specification but with an extended tail boom, and finally a competition model with a fashionable flat wing section, extended tail booms and lighter construction.

Perhaps the model does look ordinary, square and plank-like, but it has in fact been designed in an attempt to simplify the construction as much as possible for the complete beginner. The unconventional wing construction is particularly easy to make, and will result in a warp-free structure. Although not designed to out-perform the top models, the trainer version will produce a very smooth flight pattern - even on days when the wind strength approaches Force 9-10! T-Bird may be flown around the full cirle under these conditions, retaining good line tension, and this certainly gives the opposition something to think about!

Constructed properly, this model is very tough - patched up versions of earlier models have had to be given away - but if you are that bad at flying, then cut the ribs from balsa which has had lightweight tissue doped on. This really holds the wood grain together and prevents it from splitting.

A thick section, swept back leading edge and straight tapered lead-outs are all employed to provide good air-speed and stability in flight - on no account rake-back these lead outs. For best performance keep the total weight down to 16 oz - this should be bettered by 1-2 oz for the contest version. First consideration should be given to which of the three types will suit your needs best, then study the plan carefully to establish the relevant building variations - this text refers mainly to the basic trainer..."

T-Bird, Aeromodeller, May 1972.

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Supplementary file notes

Article pages, thanks to RFJ.

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